Common House Spider: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Morgan Gutierrez

The common house spider is a fascinating creature that has been living alongside humans for centuries. This spider, also known as the cellar spider or cobweb spider, has a long and interesting history. In this blog post, we will explore some intriguing facts about the common house spider, including its size, habitat, and classification.

The common house spider belongs to the family Pholcidae and the genus Pholcus. These spiders are found all over the world, often making their homes in dark and damp places such as basements, cellars, and attics. They are skilled at spinning intricate webs, which they use to catch their prey. Contrary to popular belief, the venom of the common house spider is not harmful to humans, and they are typically considered harmless.

In terms of size, the common house spider is relatively small. The females are usually larger than the males, measuring about 5-8mm in body length, while the males are around 4-7mm. Despite their small size, these spiders are known for their ability to catch and eat insects that are much larger than themselves.

So, join us as we delve into the world of the common house spider, and learn more about this intriguing creature that shares our living spaces. Remember, we already have an article on 155+ animals name, so don’t forget to check that out as well!

History of Common House Spider

The common house spider is a small and often unnoticed creature that has a long history of coexisting with humans. For thousands of years, these spiders have been building their delicate webs in the corners of our homes, waiting patiently for their next meal. Although they might be considered a nuisance by some, house spiders play an important role in our ecosystem by controlling the population of other insects.

House spiders have been weaving their webs in human dwellings for centuries. In ancient times, people relied on these spiders to keep their homes free of other pests. With their ability to catch and eat small insects like flies and mosquitoes, house spiders became natural pest controllers. As human settlements grew, so did the population of these tiny arachnids in our houses.

Throughout history, house spiders have been associated with superstitions and folklore. In many cultures, seeing a spider inside the house was considered a sign of good luck. Some even believed that they could bring wealth and prosperity to the household. On the other hand, certain myths portrayed house spiders as bringers of misfortune or even death. These legends show the deep connection between humans and these small creatures, often unknowingly sharing the same space.

Today, house spiders continue to be a common sight in our homes. They are harmless to humans and rarely bite unless provoked. While their presence might not always be welcomed by everyone, it’s important to recognize their role in keeping our homes free from other unwanted pests. So the next time you spot a house spider in the corner of your room, take a moment to appreciate its place in our history and the valuable service it provides.

Importance of Common House Spider

The common house spider is a very important animal for a few different reasons. First of all, they help control the population of other insects. Spiders eat bugs like flies and mosquitoes, which can spread diseases to humans. By eating these insects, the common house spider helps keep us healthy and safe.

Another reason why the common house spider is important is because it plays a role in the ecosystem. Every animal has a place in nature, and spiders are no exception. They are part of the food chain, meaning that other animals, like birds or frogs, eat spiders. If there were no spiders, these animals would have less food to eat, which could affect the balance of nature.

Lastly, the common house spider can also be seen as a way to learn about biology and science. Many people study spiders to learn more about their behavior and how they interact with their environment. By understanding spiders, we can gain a better understanding of the natural world around us.

In conclusion, the common house spider is an important animal because it helps control the population of insects, plays a role in the ecosystem, and is a subject of study for scientists. So the next time you see a spider in your house, remember that it is actually doing its part in keeping the balance of nature and keeping us safe from harmful insects.

Amazing Facts About Common House Spider

1. The common house spider, also known as the house spider or domestic spider, belongs to the family of spiders called “Theridiidae.”
2. These spiders are found in almost every continent around the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
3. Common house spiders are small in size, with an average body length ranging from 4 to 8 millimeters.
4. Unlike other spiders, the house spider usually has a dull and non-distinctive color, like gray, brown, or black.
5. The most common species of house spiders are the American house spider, the cobweb spider, and the cellar spider.
6. House spiders are known for their ability to create intricate and messy cobwebs, which they use to catch flying insects like flies and mosquitoes.
7. Despite their name, house spiders can be found both indoors and outdoors, creating their webs in corners, ceilings, basements, and sheds.
8. These spiders are not aggressive and rarely bite humans. Their bites, if they occur, are usually harmless and produce only mild symptoms such as redness and itching.
9. House spiders are valuable in controlling the population of other nuisance pests like flies and mosquitoes, as they actively hunt and feed on these insects.
10. Contrary to popular belief, house spiders do not climb into beds to bite people during sleep. They typically prefer to stay in undisturbed areas.
11. Female house spiders are typically larger than males and can live for up to two years, while males tend to have a shorter lifespan of just a few months.
12. House spiders have eight legs that enable them to move quickly and efficiently across various surfaces.
13. The common house spider uses silk to build its webs, which is produced by specialized glands in their abdomen.
14. When a house spider’s web becomes damaged or dirty, they often abandon it and build a new one in a different location.
15. House spiders are not dangerous to humans and are generally considered beneficial creatures in controlling insect populations within our homes.

Can we keep Common House Spider as our Pet?

Keeping a common house spider as a pet is not a good idea. Although they may seem harmless and interesting, it is not recommended to have them in our homes. Common house spiders are wild animals, and they are best left to live freely in their natural habitats.

One important reason not to keep common house spiders as pets is because they are not meant to be domesticated. They have specific needs and behaviors that can be challenging to fulfill in a household setting. They require specific environments, such as webs to build and insects to catch as food. It is difficult to provide these requirements in a home, which could result in stress or harm to the spider.

Moreover, it is important to respect the balance of nature. Common house spiders play a vital role in our ecosystem by controlling the population of insects in our homes. They capture and eat pests like flies and mosquitoes, reducing the need for chemical insecticides. Taking these spiders out of their natural habitat would disturb this balance and could result in an increase in insect populations, which could be harmful to us.

Sadly, if a species becomes extinct, it means they no longer exist in the world. Extinction occurs when a species is unable to adapt to changes in its environment or when humans negatively impact their natural habitats. Extinctions can also happen due to overhunting, pollution, or habitat destruction. Once a species goes extinct, it is irreversible, and we cannot bring them back. Therefore, it is crucial to protect and conserve animals to prevent their extinction and maintain a healthy ecosystem.

In conclusion, it is not recommended to keep common house spiders as pets. They are meant to live in their natural habitats, fulfilling their ecological roles. Additionally, if a species becomes extinct, we cannot have them as pets or encounter them anywhere else. It is vital to understand and respect the natural world and make efforts to protect and conserve the diverse animal species we have.

Size of Common House Spider

The Common House Spider, also known as the American House Spider, is a tiny creature that can be found in many homes. These spiders are quite small, with the females growing to be about half an inch long including their legs. The males are even smaller, reaching only a quarter of an inch in length. Despite their size, they can be quite scary to some people because of their creepy appearance.

These little creatures are usually a light brown color and have patterns on their abdomen that look like a geometric design. They have eight long and hairy legs, which help them move around swiftly and silently. Their bodies are not very big, and they have two main body parts – the cephalothorax and the abdomen. They have multiple eyes, which gives them good eyesight and helps them detect prey and predators.

Although these spiders are small, they play an important role in our environment. They feed on insects like flies and mosquitoes, which can be pesky and irritating to humans. Common House Spiders are known for spinning complex and intricate webs to catch their prey. These webs are often found in dark corners, behind furniture, or near windows. So, next time you see a tiny spider in your house, remember that it is helping to keep your home free of unwanted insects.

In summary, Common House Spiders are small creatures measuring about half an inch in length. They have a light brown color and hairy eight legs. Despite their tiny size, they are beneficial as they prey on annoying insects. So, when you come across one in your home, appreciate it for its valuable role in maintaining a pest-free environment!

Habitat of Common House Spider

The common house spider is a little creature that can often be found living inside our homes. It creates its habitat in different parts of our house, such as dark corners, closets, or even ceilings. The house spider likes to be in places where it can build its web and catch its food easily.

When looking for a place to live, the common house spider prefers areas that are warm and dry. It can be found in houses around the world, and it is very adaptable, which means it can live in different climates. It usually hides in small gaps or cracks in walls and furniture, where it feels safe and protected.

One reason why the common house spider likes to live in our houses is because it can find plenty of food inside. It eats other insects like ants, flies, and mosquitoes, which are attracted to our homes. The spider’s habitat provides it with a constant source of food and shelter, allowing it to survive and reproduce easily.

In conclusion, the common house spider is a tiny creature that likes to live in our homes. It builds its habitat in different parts of our house, especially in dark corners or on ceilings. The spider chooses our houses because it can find enough warmth, protection, and food. So, the next time you spot a spider in your home, remember that it has chosen to share its habitat with you!

Evolution of Common House Spider

Spiders have been around for a really long time, even before dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Over millions of years, they have adapted and changed, becoming the creatures we see today. One type of spider that has evolved over time is called the Common House Spider.

Long ago, spiders lived in caves and dark corners, building simple webs to catch their prey. As time went on, they started to move into people’s homes, making them our “house spiders.” These spiders changed their behavior and webs to fit their new environment. Instead of waiting for prey to come to them, they learned to be more active hunters, chasing after insects that came inside. Their webs also became less messy, making them easier to clean up.

Another interesting change in house spiders is their size. Back in the day, they used to be much bigger than they are now. This was because the oxygen levels in the atmosphere were higher, allowing creatures to grow larger. As oxygen levels decreased, the house spiders also shrank in size. They adapted to their new environment by becoming smaller, which helped them hide and survive better.

In summary, the Common House Spider has evolved and adapted over millions of years. They went from living in caves to becoming house spiders. They also changed their behavior, becoming active hunters and making neater webs. Additionally, they shrank in size to fit better into their new environment. These changes show how spiders have been able to survive and thrive throughout Earth’s history.

Classification of Common House Spider

The common house spider, also known as the house spider or domestic spider, belongs to the animal kingdom. It is classified under the arachnid class, which means it is part of the same group as spiders, scorpions, and ticks. House spiders are further categorized under the Araneae order and the family Theridiidae. They are small-sized creatures that can be found in homes around the world.

House spiders have a distinct body structure that sets them apart. They have two main parts: the cephalothorax and the abdomen. The cephalothorax is the fused head and chest, where their eyes, mouthparts, and legs are located. The abdomen is the round part of their body where they store food and lay eggs. These creatures have eight legs, enabling them to move quickly and skillfully.

Common house spiders typically build their webs in quiet, undisturbed areas of our homes, such as corners, above windows, or in the basement. They use the silk that they produce to create intricate and sticky webs, which they use to catch their prey. These spiders feed on insects like flies or mosquitoes that unknowingly fly into their webs. Once trapped, the common house spider will bite its prey, injecting venom that paralyzes or kills it, making it easier to consume.

In summary, the common house spider is a small arachnid that can be found in homes worldwide. It belongs to the animal kingdom, arachnid class, Araneae order, and Theridiidae family. With their distinct body structure and ability to build intricate webs, these spiders play an essential role in controlling insect populations by catching and feeding on them.

Types of Common House Spider

1. Daddy Long Legs Spider:
– Also known as cellar spider, they have long, thin legs and a small body. They are harmless to humans and feed on small insects, making them helpful in controlling pests.
2. Wolf Spider:
– These spiders are agile hunters, known for their excellent eyesight and running speed. They do not spin webs but instead chase and capture their prey, which includes insects and even small vertebrates.
3. Black Widow Spider:
– One of the most well-known spiders, the black widow has a shiny black body with a distinctive red hourglass marking on its abdomen. Females possess venom that can be dangerous to humans, while males are harmless.
4. Brown Recluse Spider:
– Reclusive by nature, these spiders prefer dark, undisturbed places. They have a violin-shaped marking on their body. Their bite can cause tissue damage and, in rare cases, lead to severe symptoms.
5. Jumping Spider:
– Small and colorful, jumping spiders are named for their incredible leaping ability. They have excellent eyesight and are active hunters, preying on insects by pouncing upon them from a distance.
6. Orb Weaver Spider:
– Known for their intricate, circular webs, orb weavers are commonly found in gardens and forests. They patiently wait for unsuspecting insects to get tangled in their sticky web before capturing and devouring them.
7. Grass Spider:
– These spiders are excellent web builders and can be found in grassy areas. They construct funnel-shaped webs, camouflaging themselves in tunnels within the web. Grass spiders mostly feed on small insects.
8. Cellar Spider:
– Often found in dark and damp areas like cellars, crawl spaces, and basements, these spiders have long, thin legs and a small body. They catch and immobilize prey by spinning webs around them.
9. House Spider:
– As their name suggests, house spiders commonly inhabit human dwellings. They spin webs in corners, windows, and basements to catch insects. Though they may look scary, they are harmless to humans.
10. Sac Spider:
– These spiders are known for their sac-shaped nests made of silk. They are often found hidden under bark, leaf litter, or rocks. Some species have venom that can cause painful bites, while others are harmless.

Geographical Presence of Common House Spider

The Common House Spider can be found in many regions around the world. They are known to live in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. These spiders are very adaptable and can survive in a wide range of environments, including houses, gardens, and even forests. They are commonly found in dark and undisturbed areas such as basements, closets, and attics.

However, there are some places where the Common House Spider is not typically found. For example, they are not commonly found in extremely cold regions, like the Arctic or Antarctica, where the temperature is too harsh for them to survive. Similarly, they are not often found in very hot and dry deserts, as their delicate bodies cannot withstand such extreme conditions.

In summary, the Common House Spider is found in various regions around the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. They can adapt to different environments, but are typically found in dark and undisturbed areas such as basements and attics. However, they are not usually found in extremely cold regions or very hot and dry deserts.

Scientific Name of Common House Spider

The scientific name for a common house spider is Tegenaria domestica. This small creature can often be found spinning its intricate webs inside our homes. It belongs to the family Agelenidae and is commonly known as the house spider due to its preference for living in our houses.

The Tegenaria domestica is usually brown or gray in color and has a slightly hairy body. It has eight legs, each with tiny bristles that help it catch its prey. These spiders are not harmful to humans and actually play a helpful role by reducing the populations of other household pests, such as flies and mosquitoes.

House spiders are skilled web-weavers, creating delicate and intricate webs in corners or near light sources to catch their prey. They are typically found in dark and undisturbed areas, such as basements, attics, and closets. Their webs are impressive structures that allow them to immobilize their unsuspecting victims until they can be consumed.

In summary, the Tegenaria domestica, commonly known as the common house spider, is a harmless spider that can often be found inside our houses. They help to control other pests in our homes and are known for their intricate web-weaving abilities. These small creatures are mostly found in dark and undisturbed areas, creating their impressive webs to catch their prey.

Diet of Common House Spider

The Common House Spider, like many spiders, enjoys a diet that mainly consists of bugs and flies. These little creatures are known as predators because they hunt other animals for food. Common House Spiders spin webs to catch their prey. When a bug innocently flies into the web, it gets trapped and cannot escape. That’s when the spider comes out to catch its meal.

Insects like mosquitoes, flies, and moths are a favorite among Common House Spiders. They are attracted to their movements and sounds when they get caught in the sticky silk of the web. Once the spider captures its prey, it bites it and releases venom to paralyze it. This venom not only stops the bug from moving, but it also starts breaking down its insides into a liquid that the spider can then suck up as food.

The Common House Spider needs enough insects to survive, especially during the warmer months when food is more abundant. They have to eat regularly to keep their energy levels up. If there is not enough prey around, the spider might even eat its own web as a last resort. This way, it can recycle the proteins from the web and use them to build another one or even to repair any damages.

In conclusion, the Common House Spider is a predator that survives by catching and eating bugs and flies. Its ability to spin webs helps it trap its prey and secure its next meal. By eating regularly, it maintains its energy levels and can continue spinning its hardworking webs.

Locomotion of Common House Spider

The common house spider can move in a special way called locomotion. Locomotion is the way animals move from one place to another. The common house spider uses a skill called crawling to get around. It has eight long and hairy legs that help it crawl on different surfaces like walls, ceilings, and even on the ground.

When the common house spider crawls, it moves its legs one by one. First, it stretches out its front legs and attaches them to a surface. Then it pulls its body forward and brings its hind legs closer. After that, it repeats the process with the other legs. This movement helps the spider to walk smoothly and quickly. It can crawl in any direction it wants, allowing it to explore its surroundings and find a cozy spot to build its web. The locomotion of the common house spider is truly fascinating!

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Common House Spider

The behavior of the Common House Spider is greatly influenced by its social and sexual interactions. These tiny arachnids usually prefer to live alone, but they sometimes gather in large groups called clusters or colonies. Within these clusters, the spiders can share information, such as the location of prey or potential threats. By living in groups, they protect themselves and their eggs from danger.

When it comes to their sexual behaviors, male house spiders often engage in elaborate courtship rituals to attract a female mate. The male performs a series of dance-like movements to impress the female, vibrating his abdomen and legs in a specific pattern. If the female is interested, she will respond by waving her front legs in a seductive manner. Once the courtship is successful, the male will deposit his sperm onto a small web and transfer it to the female’s reproductive organs.

After mating, the female Common House Spider is responsible for constructing a special silk sac where she deposits her eggs. Once the eggs are safely inside the sac, she guards them diligently, protecting them from any harm. When the spiderlings hatch, they stay close to their mother for a short period before venturing out on their own. This behavior ensures the survival of the next generation of Common House Spiders.

In summary, Common House Spiders are interesting creatures when it comes to their social and sexual behaviors. They can live alone or in groups, benefiting from the information shared within a cluster. Moreover, their courtship rituals are intricate, allowing the male to impress the female and reproduce. Finally, the females take great care of their eggs, ensuring the survival of their spiderlings.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Common House Spider

The common house spider goes through a fascinating process to reproduce and continue its life cycle. First, a male spider spins a small web and deposits sperm onto it. Then he loads his pedipalps, which are small appendages near his mouth, with the sperm. Next, he sets out in search of a female spider’s web to mate with. When he finds a female, he impresses her by plucking her web like a musical instrument to get her attention. If she is interested, she lets him approach, and they mate by transferring the sperm from the male’s pedipalps into the female’s reproductive organs.

After mating, the female house spider has an important decision to make. She can either store the sperm inside her body to use later or immediately lay eggs. If she chooses to store the sperm, she can use it to fertilize multiple batches of eggs over a period of time. When the female is ready to lay her eggs, she creates a silk sac, or an egg sac, which contains hundreds of eggs. She carefully attaches this sac to a protected area in her web or another hiding spot. The spider mom diligently guards it until the eggs hatch, which can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a few months, depending on the environment.

Once the spider eggs hatch, tiny spiderlings emerge from the sac. At first, they are completely reliant on their mother for protection and nutrition. When they are old enough, the spiderlings disperse, or spread out, using their silk threads as parachutes to be carried by the wind. They find new places to live, spin their own webs, and begin the cycle all over again. Sadly, many spiderlings do not survive to adulthood because they may become prey to other animals or face other dangers in the environment. But the ones that do survive continue the life cycle of the common house spider, ensuring the population continues to thrive.

Threats to Common House Spider

Threats to Common House Spider

The common house spider, just like any other animal, faces several threats that can affect its survival. One of the biggest dangers for these spiders is the use of pesticides. People often use strong chemicals to get rid of bugs in their homes, but these pesticides can be harmful to spiders too. When spiders come into contact with these toxic substances, it can weaken or even kill them.

Another threat to the common house spider is the destruction of its habitat. These spiders usually live in houses and other human structures. However, when people destroy old buildings or clean their homes excessively, it can remove the spider’s preferred living areas. Without a suitable habitat, the spiders struggle to find a safe place to live and hunt for food.

Lastly, the common house spider also faces threats from other creatures. Some animals, like birds or other spiders, see them as a tasty meal. These predators can eat the house spiders or destroy their webs, making it harder for them to catch insects. Additionally, some people have a fear of spiders and may try to kill them upon seeing them. This fear often stems from a lack of understanding about the important role spiders play in our ecosystem.

Overall, the common house spider faces dangers from pesticides, habitat destruction, and predators. It is important for us to be mindful of these threats and take steps to protect these spiders. Instead of using harmful chemicals, we can try to use natural alternatives to control bugs in our homes. Also, preserving old buildings and being more tolerant towards spiders can help ensure their survival.

Population of Common House Spider

The population of the common house spider animal is quite large and widely spread across the world. It is estimated that there are billions and billions of these spiders living in houses, buildings, and gardens. They can be found in almost every country and continent, except for extreme environments like the polar regions.

These spiders are adaptively built to live in human dwellings and are adept at hiding in corners, ceilings, and even inside closets. They are known for their ability to spin intricate webs to catch insects for food and to also use as a means of shelter. Common house spiders are generally harmless to humans and actually help control the population of other pests like flies and mosquitoes.

However, if we imagine a scenario where the common house spider becomes extinct, it would have some impact on our surroundings. Although they may not be the most beloved creatures, they contribute to the ecological balance by feeding on insects that can cause harm to humans and crops. Without them, other pests might thrive, resulting in increased insect populations that could negatively affect our lives. Therefore, it is important to recognize their significance and coexist with these small arachnids.

Conclusion

The Common House Spider, also known as the animals name, has a fascinating history and many interesting facts. These spiders can be found in homes all around the world and have adapted to live in a variety of habitats. Their small size allows them to hide in tiny corners and crevices, making them quite difficult to spot.

Despite their reputation for being creepy and scary, Common House Spiders play an important role in our homes. They feed on other insects like flies and mosquitoes, helping to keep our living spaces free from bugs. This natural pest control makes them a helpful ally to humans.

In terms of classification, Common House Spiders belong to the Araneidae family. They are part of the arachnid group, which includes spiders and scorpions. These creatures have eight legs and four pairs of eyes, allowing them to have a wide range of vision.

In conclusion, the Common House Spider is a tiny yet fascinating creature that can be found in many homes. While they may sometimes give us a fright, they actually help to keep our living spaces bug-free by eating other insects. Their classification as part of the arachnid group makes them a unique member of the animal kingdom. So, the next time you see a spider in your house, remember its vital role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions about Common House Spider (FAQ’s)

Q: What is a common house spider?
A: The common house spider, scientifically known as Parasteatoda tepidariorum, is a species of spider commonly found in human dwellings.

Q: What does a common house spider look like?
A: Common house spiders are generally small to medium-sized, with a body length ranging from 6 to 9 mm. They are usually brown or gray and have a bulbous abdomen.

Q: Where are common house spiders commonly found?
A: Common house spiders are found worldwide, but they are particularly prevalent in North America and Europe. They tend to prefer dark and undisturbed areas within homes.

Q: Are common house spiders venomous?
A: Yes, common house spiders possess venom, but their venom is generally harmless to humans. They are not considered to be a significant threat.

Q: What do common house spiders eat?
A: Common house spiders primarily feed on insects and other small arthropods. They use their webs to catch their prey, and they can subsist on a variety of pests found in homes.

Q: Do common house spiders bite humans?
A: Common house spiders rarely bite humans. They are typically non-aggressive and only bite if they feel threatened. Their bites are usually harmless and cause only mild irritation.

Q: Are common house spiders beneficial?
A: Yes, common house spiders are considered beneficial as they help control populations of other pests by feeding on them. They act as natural pest controllers in homes.

Q: How long do common house spiders live?
A: Common house spiders have an average lifespan of about one to two years, but some individuals can live up to five years under ideal conditions.

Q: How do common house spiders reproduce?
A: Common house spiders reproduce sexually. The male deposits his sperm on a small web and then transfers it to his pedipalps. He uses these to inseminate the female during mating.

Q: Can common house spiders infest a home?
A: Common house spiders do not typically infest homes in large numbers. They prefer to live solitary lives and occupy discreet areas within a home.

Q: How do common house spiders build their webs?
A: Common house spiders use their spinnerets, located at the end of their abdomen, to produce silk threads. They construct intricate webs that serve as their hunting grounds.

Q: Can common house spiders harm furniture or structures?
A: Common house spiders do not pose a direct threat to furniture or structures. Their webs, however, may build up over time and become unsightly if left uncleaned.

Q: How can I prevent common house spiders in my home?
A: To prevent common house spiders, it is important to keep your living space clean and free of clutter. Regularly vacuuming corners and crevices can help eliminate potential spider hiding spots.

Q: Are common house spiders active during the day or night?
A: Common house spiders are predominantly nocturnal creatures. They are more active during the night when they come out to hunt and build or repair their webs.

Q: What is the purpose of a common house spider’s silk thread?
A: The silk threads produced by common house spiders serve multiple purposes, including building webs for trapping prey, creating egg sacs for offspring, and producing draglines for locomotion.

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